TIRANA, July 23 – Albanian champions Egnatia drew 3-3 with Slovenia’s Celje in the first leg of the second qualifying round of the Union of European Football Associations Champions League. The result leaves qualification open ahead of the return match.
Egnatia took the lead in the 7th minute at the sold-out “Egnatia Arena”. Eneo Bitri’s header forced an own goal after pressure inside the penalty area. The home side created more chances before the break. However, Kvesic equalised for Celje just before half-time.
Meanwhile, Egnatia started the second half strongly. Albanese came close to scoring, but the visiting goalkeeper made a crucial save. Celje then turned the match around in the 54th minute through Kučys. Fernando quickly levelled the score with a long-range strike. Later, Kvesić scored his second goal to restore Celje’s lead.
However, Egnatia responded once again. Substitute Diabate scored in the 78th minute to make it 3-3. The draw keeps both teams in contention for a place in the third qualifying round.
The return leg will take place in Slovenia on July 29. The winner will advance to the third qualifying round of the Union of European Football Associations Champions League.
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